Profit First-Unlocking Effective Cash-flow Management for Small Businesses

• Business
• May 28, 2024

This blog explores the concept of a profit-centric model of business and how it can lead to better cash flow management for small businesses. The profit-first system challenges the conventional revenue-centric model of businesses. It argues that higher revenues don’t necessarily lead to higher profits and that profit should be the primary goal and not an outcome of your business strategy.

Understanding the concept of Profit First

Profit first involves shifting the paradigm from revenue centric approach to a profit centric model. The idea is to create a buffer against overspending which happens when more money is coming in (revenue growth) and expenses tend to expand. If businesses allocate a certain percentage of their funds as profits regularly, it ensures that you prioritize profitability and gain a better control over the cash flow.

Allocation Principle:

Profits first lays down a simple yet effective formula for fund allocation:

1. Income/Sales: Profit first advocates setting aside a certain percentage of the revenue as profit as it comes in before any other expenses.
2. Operating costs: Covering costs like salaries, utilities, rent etc.
3. Owners’ Compensation: Allocation for entrepreneur’s salary.
4. Taxes: Setting aside funds for taxes.
5. Profit: The sum remaining after the above allocations is the real profit.

Tips & Tricks:

To effectively incorporate the concept of Profit First, it is a good idea to open separate bank accounts for income, operating expenses, taxes, owners’ compensation, profit. This helps in managing cash flow effectively, segregate funds and enhance transparency.

Additionally, setting specific days for profit distribution, expense payments, tax transfers etc builds a routine which enables fiscal discipline in the long run.

Conclusively, Profit-first is a systematic approach, which encourages intentional revenue allocation thereby prioritizing profits. Adopting this approach can significantly improve the financial health of businesses leading to a robust & sustainable working model.

Get in touch with Jazaa Business Services for financial advisory services @www.jazaa.in